The Role of Swim Caps in Preventing Swimmer’s Ear

Swimmer’s ear, or otitis externa, is an infection of the outer ear canal, often the result of water remaining in your ear after swimming. This damp environment becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Read on and find out the role of swim caps in preventing swimmer’s ear.

Keeping Ears Dry

Although swim caps are not 100 percent watertight, they significantly reduce the amount of water that enters the ear canal. By decreasing the water in your ears, you substantially lower the chances of any water lingering and creating a damp space perfect for bacteria.

Being a Reminder for Ear Drops

Remembering to dry your ears thoroughly after a swim is a vital step in preventing swimmer’s ear. Many swimmers even use over-the-counter ear drops to aid this drying process. The simple act of removing your swim cap can serve as a practical reminder to apply these drops, helping you form a habit of ear care after your swim.

Guarding Against Infection

In some cases, swimmer’s ear isn’t just the result of water lingering in your ears. Irritation to the ear canal can also cause the infection. Stray strands of hair rubbing against the ear canal can cause such irritation, and this is where swim caps come in handy. They help keep your hair secure and prevent it from causing friction against the delicate skin in your ear canal.

Acting as a Barrier

Lastly, swim team swim caps serve as a barrier between your ears and the bacteria-filled water in the pool. While you can’t completely avoid exposure to bacteria while swimming, a swim cap minimizes contact, reducing the likelihood of an infection.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal and hair management capabilities, swim caps serve as a vital shield against potential infections. Now that you know the role of swim caps in preventing swimmer’s ear, you can make a more informed decision about incorporating them into your swimming routine.